Tampa and its urban environment

Tampa, Florida is one of the fastest growing cities in the United States. However, Tampa has fast become a large metropolis where the human scale urban environment, characteristic of traditional American cities, has become obsolete. Downtown is empty of life on the streets and most importantly Tampa lacks a "common," an agora; a civic space where the people can coincide. This thesis delves into Tampa's urban history, as well as uncover common natural and cultural assets which can create a sense of place. Finding a sense of place has become common among many American cities that have experienced urban decline, especially since after WWII. I shall also explore how Tampa can redirect growth inward rather than towards its metropolitan fringes, where nature is consumed at a rapid pace..